Path-Q Solar

What questions should I ask an installer about shading assumptions in a solar quote?

Answer

Ask how shading was measured, which objects and seasons were included, how each roof plane was modeled, and what production loss was applied. Request evidence such as a site survey, shade report, or model output rather than accepting an unqualified percentage.

Key points

  • Ask whether trees, chimneys, neighboring buildings, roof features, and future tree growth were considered.
  • Confirm whether shading varies by hour and season or was represented by a broad annual estimate.
  • Ask which panels or strings are affected and whether module-level electronics change the impact.
  • Request production results with and without shading so the effect is visible.
  • Clarify who bears the risk if actual shading differs from the proposal.

What it depends on

  • Site layout and roof geometry
  • Current and expected obstructions
  • Survey method and modeling software
  • Module, inverter, and electrical design

Risks and trade-offs

  • A single annual shade percentage can hide severe losses during valuable production periods.
  • Tree removal or trimming may involve cost, property rights, safety, or future regrowth.
  • More complex electronics may reduce mismatch losses but add cost and maintenance considerations.

Information you may need

  • Shade report or site-survey output
  • Roof-plane layout and hourly or monthly production
  • Obstruction inventory and future growth assumptions
  • Equipment topology and loss assumptions

Your next step

What to do next

Ask the installer to provide the shading evidence and a revised production comparison with explicit obstruction and growth assumptions.

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SQ01472